Mid-Century Modern in Rockland County
Designed by renowned architect Edgar Tafel, the Bookstaber House (c.1949) is a luminous, architecturally significant midcentury modern residence. Tafel started as an apprentice to Frank Lloyd Wright, and worked on some of Wright’s most important commissions, including Fallingwater. Tafel’s own work, including 80 custom houses, is known for its variety, as he believed that a house should be a reflection of the personality of its owners. Stationed in India during WWII, Tafel met fellow GI Henry Bookstaber, and together the two designed a post-war home for Henry and his wife Ingeborg.
The house was a collaborative creation—fusing architectural innovation with artistic expression. At its heart is a striking brick hearth topped with a sculptural concrete relief designed by the Bookstabers themselves, anchoring the expansive open-plan living space with warmth and character. Floor-to-ceiling win...
The house was a collaborative creation—fusing architectural innovation with artistic expression. At its heart is a striking brick hearth topped with a sculptural concrete relief designed by the Bookstabers themselves, anchoring the expansive open-plan living space with warmth and character. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout invite natural light and offer uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape, with mature trees giving a sense of serene seclusion. Designed to reflect the lives of its original artist-owners, the home remains a living piece of art, with Tafel’s signature blend of functionality, form, and personal resonance.
Thoughtfully updated by the current owners, who purchased directly from the Bookstaber family, the home now features a stylish Porcelanosa kitchen with granite countertops, premium appliances, and generous storage. Additional improvements include beautifully renovated bathrooms, updated mechanical systems, a new roof, and a custom-built patio for outdoor enjoyment.
The house sits on a serene, secluded lot with more than an acre of woods, abutting the Pascack Brook and parkland. Ideally located just 1 mile from downtown Pearl River, with its charming shops, restaurants, and train access to Manhattan via NJ Transit. Close to the NJ border, Tappan Zee and GW Bridges, and Westchester. Situated in the highly-rated Pearl River School District, this home offers the perfect balance of architectural pedigree and modern comfort.
Whether you're seeking a full-time residence, a stylish weekend retreat, or a truly livable piece of architectural history, the Bookstaber House is a rare opportunity to live with intention—just outside the city.
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